Year: 2004
Director: Wong Kar Wai
Country: Hong Kong
Language: Cantonese
After having seen Wong Kar Wai's Chungking Express (1994) and In The Mood For Love (2000) I knew that 2046 (2004) might not be as big of a masterpiece- and it wasn't- but I can't say I was let down by it either. While it probably won't be considered a "classic", 2046 is still a remarkable picture that dissects themes of love, loss, loneliness and lust.
Several women enter a science fiction author's life over the course of a few years, after the author (Tony Chiu-Wai Leung) has lost the woman he considers his one true love.
The movie jumps back and forth from the present (1960’s) to the future (2046) where his fictional story is centered. The futuristic story of 2046 is Chow’s way of expressing pain, by turning women he knows into fictional characters where he can view their relationships more regrettably and in impersonal ways. It's a coping method that makes him more human and vulnerable.
Its slow pace and tonal shifts may test the audience's patients, but ultimately proves rewarding. This fascinating existential drama blends romantic pain with science fiction fantasy. Its full of an autumn-like colour pallette that is elevated by a haunting score. Emotions burst through the screen and move Wai's audience in ways that many films fail to capture.
2046 may be confusing for a first time viewing, but its technical and emotional achievement is worth repeat viewings. You owe it to yourself not only to see this film, but to look at all of Wong Kar Wai's work. I'm currently going through the rest of his filmography and finding myself more and more impressed.
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